Preventive Care
Excellence in Preventive Dentistry
Clear aligners offer an advanced approach to teeth straightening that allows you to achieve a beautiful, aligned smile without the appearance and inconvenience of traditional metal braces. These custom-made, transparent trays are designed specifically for your teeth and gradually move them into their ideal positions over time.
Unlike conventional braces, clear aligners are removable, allowing you to eat, drink, brush, and floss normally throughout your treatment. This innovative orthodontic solution is ideal for adults and teens who want to improve their smile while maintaining their confidence and lifestyle during treatment.
BENEFITS OF PREVENTIVE CARE
Early Detection
Regular preventive visits allow our team to identify potential dental problems in their earliest stages when treatment is most effective and least invasive. Early detection can save you time, discomfort, and significant dental expenses while preserving your natural tooth structure and overall oral health.
Professional Cleaning
Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be eliminated through regular brushing and flossing alone. Our thorough cleaning process helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath while leaving your teeth feeling smooth and looking their brightest.
Cost-Effective
Investing in preventive care significantly reduces your long-term dental costs by avoiding expensive treatments for advanced dental problems. Most insurance plans cover preventive services at 100%, making regular care both affordable and financially smart for maintaining optimal oral health.
STEPS OF PROCEDURE
Process
Step 1
Comprehensive Examination
Your preventive visit begins with a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. We use advanced diagnostic tools to assess your oral health status, check for signs of decay, gum disease, or other concerns, and evaluate your bite and jaw function for optimal comfort.
Step 2
Professional Cleaning
Our skilled dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from all tooth surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas below the gum line. We use gentle yet effective techniques to clean your teeth thoroughly while ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
Step 3
Fluoride Treatment
A professional fluoride application helps strengthen tooth enamel and provides additional protection against decay. This quick, painless treatment helps remineralize weak areas of your teeth and provides lasting benefits for your oral health.
Step 4
Oral Health Education
We provide personalized guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques, discuss dietary factors affecting your oral health, and recommend specific products tailored to your individual needs. Education empowers you to maintain optimal oral health between visits.
Step 5
Treatment Planning
Based on your examination results, we develop a personalized treatment plan addressing any current concerns and establishing a schedule for future preventive visits. We discuss our findings, answer your questions, and ensure you understand your oral health status completely.
Advanced Preventive Technology
At Irmo Dentistry, we utilize state-of-the-art technology to enhance our preventive care services. Digital X-rays provide detailed images with significantly reduced radiation exposure, while intraoral cameras allow us to show you exactly what we see during your examination. Our advanced diagnostic tools help us detect problems early and provide you with the most comprehensive preventive care available.
We believe that comfortable patients receive better care, which is why our modern facility is designed with your comfort in mind. From our welcoming reception area to our comfortable treatment rooms equipped with the latest dental technology, every aspect of your visit is designed to provide a positive, stress-free experience that encourages regular preventive care.
Expert Preventive Care
Dr. Jameson Davis brings years of experience in preventive dentistry to serve families throughout Irmo and the surrounding South Carolina communities. His gentle approach and commitment to patient education ensure that every preventive visit is both thorough and comfortable. Dr. Davis takes the time to explain your oral health status, discuss prevention strategies, and answer all your questions, making his a trusted partner in maintaining your family’s oral health. His dedication to preventive care has helped countless patients avoid complex dental problems and maintain healthy, beautiful smiles throughout their lives.
FAQS
How often should I schedule preventive dental visits?
Most patients benefit from preventive visits every six months, though some individuals with specific risk factors may need more frequent care. During your initial examination, we’ll assess your individual oral health needs and recommend an appropriate schedule for preventive visits. Factors such as your history of dental problems, gum health, and overall medical condition help us determine the optimal frequency for your preventive care appointments.
What should I expect during my preventive care appointment?
Your preventive visit includes a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues, followed by a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. We may take digital X-rays if needed, apply fluoride treatment, and provide personalized oral health education. The entire appointment typically takes about an hour, and we’ll discuss any findings and recommendations for maintaining optimal oral health between visits.
Does insurance cover preventive dental care?
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive services at 100%, including routine cleanings, examinations, and fluoride treatments. We accept most major insurance plans and will help you understand your benefits and maximize your coverage. Our team can verify your insurance benefits before your appointment and explain any costs not covered by your plan.
What can I do at home to support my preventive care?
Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is essential for successful preventive care. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended. Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages, avoid tobacco products, and drink plenty of water throughout the day. We’ll provide specific recommendations based on your individual oral health needs and risk factors.
Can preventive care help with bad breath?
Yes, professional preventive care is highly effective in addressing bad breath caused by bacterial buildup, plaque, and tartar. Our thorough cleaning removes odor-causing bacteria and debris that regular brushing and flossing may miss. We can also identify underlying conditions that may contribute to persistent bad breath and recommend appropriate treatment options to keep your breath fresh and confident.
Is preventive care appropriate for children?
While our Irmo Dentistry practice focuses on adult general dentistry, we understand the importance of establishing good oral health habits early. For pediatric preventive care, we recommend visiting our sister practice, Irmo Kids Dental, which specializes in providing comprehensive preventive services for children and teens. We’re happy to coordinate care as your children transition to adult dentistry services.
